Welcome to the DIS!! I am sure many folks will be come along to share their expertise...you have come to a great place to have questions answered. Here are some things we enjoy:
* plan time to swim daily. Also, resorts will let you borrow swim vests for
the length of your stay.
* if you are going to collect character autographs, plan time for it -- it does
take a lot of time. Attending a character breakfast is efficient and
fun,but make your adrs as soon as you can/decide
* We pretty much stick to our regular schedule regarding bedtime to avoid
cranky kids the next day. Consider planning an easy day the next day if
you have a late night, and also a no-park day in the middle of your trip to
give everyone a chance to rest! This is also a good time to visit
Downtown Disney, relax at the pool, tour various resorts, have a special
meal at a resort, etc.
* In addition to collecting autographs, kids like to trade pins w/castmembers
or collect pressed pennies.
* You can bring your own snacks and drinks in the park, and this can be a
real time and money saver. I always bring in a small cooler bag w/juice
and familiar snacks and they come in handy in lines or shows -- also, it is
nice not to have to hunt down and appopriate snack and then wait in line
for it.
* bring your own lightweight umbrella stroller
* don't be afraid of the rain...pack ponchos and stroller covers and keep on
going!
* read a guide book on the parks to give you a depth of knowledge of what
there is and to assist you in deciding your daily itineraries.
Happy planning.
